Rotary helps WEFAS purchase Protective Gear for Volunteers

When an emergency call is made to 911 in Caldwell, Essex Fells, Fairfield, North Caldwell or West Caldwell, the volunteers of the West Essex First Aid Squad (WEFAS) will be there to help - any time, any day. The squad of 80 trained volunteers responds to an average of 7-8 calls each day.

To provide emergency service to five communities properly, WEFAS needs volunteers and up-to-date, well maintained equipment. Most of their funding comes through donations from local residents, business and civic organizations. “We are extremely grateful to our community donors who are there for us every year,” said WEFAS President John Taylor. “It is through their donations that we are able to safely respond and to help save lives."

The Rotary Club of the Caldwells continues to support WEFAS this year by donating $2,500 toward turn-out gear. This personal protective equipment is clothing is worn by the WEFAS volunteers in emergency situations. "The safety of the volunteers is extremely important," said Past Rotary President Kevin Hersh. "I cannot even imagine our community without our emergency service network. WEFAS volunteers are part of this network and their safety is paramount."

The Rotary Club of the Caldwells has a long heritage of supporting WEFAS. In 2009, the organization donated all proceeds from their annual golf outing – over $12,000 – to help WEFAS purchase a new rescue vehicle. "It is an honor to contribute to WEFAS. They are a remarkable group,” said Tom Cocchiola, Rotary President. “By supporting WEFAS, The Rotary Club of the Caldwells is supporting both WEFAS and our communities. To the volunteers of WEFAS, The Rotary Club of the Caldwells says THANK YOU!"

During the presentation of the check on Tuesday, John Taylor expressed his appreciation to the Rotary Club of the Caldwells. “Organizations such as Rotary have been very generous to us through your donations and we thank you.”

To learn more about volunteering for WEFAS or to make a contribution, please contact 973-403-8568 or visit www.westessexfas.org. To learn more about The Rotary Club of the Caldwells and their commitment to service both locally and internationally, please visit http://www.caldwellrotary.org or call 973-226-2334.

Submitted by Rotarian Christy Berg